Introduction
Building a budget gaming PC can be quite the challenge nowadays. Not only because components are being attached with heftier price tags on release, but the hardware requirements for the latest games seems to be rising with each passing month. Because of this, the fine margins needed to build a high quality gaming PC on a tight budget can be hard to navigate.
Luckily, there are a lot of budget components for gamers to consider, with more manufacturers looking to cater to the needs of the current entry-level market. One strong example is Intel’s Core i3 13100F, a budget CPU that has become the go-to option for a cheap and cheerful gaming experience.
Suggested Article: Best CPU Coolers for Intel Core i5 13400F
But in order to optimise the performance of this 13th-Gen processor, it needs to be paired with an efficient cooling system. Whilst a CPU cooler is an essential part of any PC build, this additional cost can get quite pricey for those unsure of what to look out for.
That’s why we’ve put together this buyers guide showcasing the best budget CPU coolers to go alongside the Intel Core i3 13100F, as well as some key factors to consider when picking up this CPU.
Our Recommendations
1. Intel RM1 Stock Cooler
👑 The cheapest CPU cooler
Introduction
We’re starting off our list with the cheapest cooler you can get with Intel’s current generation of CPUs, the RM1 Stock Cooler. It may not be the most exciting option for consumers, but Intel’s cooling solution that comes packaged with all 13th-gen processors is a great way to cut down on costs. Plus, this cooler is specifically designed for Intel 12th and 13th-gen processors, meaning you don’t have to worry about whether it’s compatible with your CPU and motherboard combo.
Despite most builders overlooking the RM1, it has some plenty of advantages over the separate CPU coolers offered by other manufacturers. Along with removing the additional cost needed to pick up other cooling solutions, the RM1 Stock Cooler is one of the easiest to install and the orientation of the fan creates a slim form factor that will have no issues fitting into compact PC builds.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Intel RM1 Stock Cooler |
|---|---|
| Max Fan Speed | 3150RPM |
| Connector Type | 4-pin PWM |
| RGB | No |
| Heat Pipes | N/A |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel – LGA 1700, 1200 |
Things We Like
Easy to install: As a cooler dedicated to work with Intel’s latest processors, it is easy to install with little complications, making it an ideal choice for novice builders.
Included with CPU: For those with limited funds, Intel’s stock cooler is more than capable of keeping budget systems cool. Using this cooler instead of buying another option is a great way to open up more funds for other components.
Things We Don’t Like
Simplistic design: Unsurprisingly, this stock option takes a no-nonsense approach. Because of this, anyone wanting a cooler that adds flair to a gaming rig, then you might want to get their wallets out.
Limited performance: Whilst the proposed 3150RPM on this air cooler is pretty impressive, the lack of additional features restricts the cooling capabilities to a point where it may struggle to keep temperatures down on most gaming systems.
Summary
If keeping the costs down is the number one priority for a CPU cooler, then Intel’s RM1 Stock Cooler is the perfect choice. Whilst this option is not going to blow anyone away with its design or thermal regulation, not having to pay for a cooler that does the job is a great way to save money when building a budget system.
Features: 3.5/5
Design: 3/5
Performance: 3.5/5
Value for Money: 4.8/5
Pros
- Packaged in with CPU
- Simple installation
- Strong airflow
Cons
- Simple design
- Limited cooling
- No RGB lighting
Where to Buy
Buy the Intel RM1 Stock Cooler on:
2. Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE
👑 The best value CPU cooler
Introduction
For those gamers looking for an air cooling solution that brings some extra features to the table, then the Thermalright Peerless Assassin SE 120 is definitely worth considering. This CPU cooler has built up a reputation as one of the best air cooling solutions on the market, and can even compete with the efficiency on most liquid coolers for a fraction of the price.
Featuring a dual-tower design with a 120mm fan and 6 heat pipes, the 120 SE provides provides plenty of airflow to keep a budget CPU like the i3 13100F nice and cool. In terms of design, the 120 SE remains fairly simple, allowing it to blend into most systems. However, the two-tone grey colour scheme on the fans offers a unique look that allows this budget cooler to distinguish itself from the competition.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE |
|---|---|
| Max Fan Speed | 1550RPM |
| Connector Type | 4-pin PWM |
| RGB | No |
| Heat Pipes | 6 |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel – LGA 1700, 1200, 115x / AMD- AM5, AM4 |
Things We Like
Lots of airflow: Equipped with two 120mm fans, this air cooler is able to push heat away from the CPU in an efficient manner. This will help to keep the i3 13100F temperatures down to endure gaming perform.
Affordable pricing: Like most air coolers, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is available at a very reasonable price point. Often sitting around the $50 mark, this is solid option for those on a budget.
Things We Don’t Like
Lack of aesthetic: Whilst this cooler is more aesthetically pleasing than the previous entry featured in this roundup, it still lacks the design features to satisfy the needs of most gaming setups.
Clearance issues: The bulky nature of dual-tower coolers like this one are known to have issues fitting into compact PC cases, with some even restricting access to RAM and SSD slots. As a result, it is worth checking the dimensions before picking this cooler up for your build.
Summary
Overall, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is an affordable air cooler that is bound to slice down on the temperatures of your budget system. With two fans and lots of heat pipes, this cooling solution offers enough airflow to support the needs of most i3 13100F users at an affordable price.
Features: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Performance: 4.2/5
Value for Money: 4.3/5
Pros
- Plenty of airflow
- Budget pricing
- Easy to install
Cons
- Lack of RGB
- Bulky design
Where to Buy
Buy the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE on:
3. Cooler Master MasterLiquid Lite 120
👑 The best compact CPU cooler
Introduction
If air cooling doesn’t quite suit your needs, then a compact liquid cooler such as Cooler Master’s MasterLiquid Lite 120 is a viable alternative. This 120mm AIO cooler offers PC builders the benefits of liquid cooling for a price that is similar to most air coolers. On top of this, the smaller size of the Lite 120 makes it easier to install than an AIO cooler with a larger radiator.
The compact nature and entry-level price point of this cooler makes it a great option for budget gamers looking to build a gaming PC that takes up less desk space. In addition, the cooler itself is an ideal fit within compact PCs, as the water pump doesn’t protrude as much as an air cooler, leading to less concerns over case compatibility.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Cooler Master MasterLiquid Lite 120 |
|---|---|
| Max Fan Speed | 2000RPM |
| Connector Type | 4-pin PWM |
| RGB | No |
| Heat Pipes | N/A |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel – LGA 1700, 1200, 115x, 2011, 2066 / AMD- AM5, AM4 |
Things We Like
Affordable liquid cooling: One of the main reasons that air coolers are still used within budget systems is due to their lower price point providing better value for consumers. However, 120mm options reduce the gap to make the value advantage for air coolers somewhat redundant.
Compact design: With both the water pump and singular fan taking up minimal space within a PC, this cooler is a solid option for those looking to build a portable gaming rig.
Things We Don’t Like
Lack of RGB lighting: Compared to the abundance of liquid coolers on the market, the Lite 120 boasts a fairly lacklustre appearance. Whilst it won’t have any problems blending into a gaming PC, don’t expect any RGB.
Lack of airflow: Though liquid cooling is generally an efficient cooling method for budget systems, the single 120mm fan will struggle to provide the heat dissipation required to cool more intense workloads.
Summary
As one of the cheapest liquid coolers on the market, the Cooler Master MasterLiquid Lite 120 acts as a solid alternative to the more traditional air coolers found in most budget systems. Plus, the small form factor makes it a great fit for gamers looking to build a compact gaming PC.
Features: 4/5
Design: 3.8/5
Performance: 4/5
Value for Money: 4.2/5
Pros
- Great for compact builds
- Cheap liquid cooling
- Lack of clearance issues
Cons
- Lack of RGB
- Restricted performance
Where to Buy
Buy the Cooler Master MasterLiquid Lite 120 on:
4. Cooler Master Hyper 212 RGB Black Edition
👑 The best RGB CPU cooler
Introduction
Cooler Master also provide plenty of air cooling solutions on a budget, like the Hyper 212 RGB Black Edition. As the name suggests, this cooler has a predominantly black aesthetic, with the fan offering a splash of colour to create a nice contrast that abides with the typical gaming PC standard. The Hyper 212 series of CPU coolers have been a long-term favourite at GeekaWhat HQ thanks to their great value.
For a CPU cooler that is mainly targeted towards gamers on a budget, the Hyper 212 goes above and beyond the expectations to provide entry-level gamers with a more luxurious gaming experience. In comparison to the other air coolers featured in this roundup, the Hyper 212 possesses a slimmer design with a look that will be more appealing to most gamers, making it a better option for those worried about clearance for neighbouring components.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Cooler Master Hyper 212 RGB Black Edition |
|---|---|
| Max Fan Speed | 2000RPM |
| Connector Type | 4-pin PWM |
| RGB | Yes |
| Heat Pipes | 4 |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel – LGA 1700, 1200, 115x, 1366, 2011, 2066 / AMD- AM5, AM4 |
Things We Like
Easy to install: In a similar fashion to the other air coolers featured in this list, the installation process for this CPU cooler is fairly straightforward, making it an ideal choice for novice builders.
RGB lighting: Despite the budget price point, this cooler comes with an RGB fan, which can be customised with the included controller, or via supporting motherboard RGB software to synch the effects with the rest of your system.
Things We Don’t Like
Limited thermal regulation: Due to the smaller number of heat pipes and slimmer form factor, this cooler will struggle to keep temperatures down during more intense gaming sessions. However, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue for most budget builds.
Additional costs: It is possible to attach an secondary fan to create a more powerful push-pull config for this cooler. However, this requires a purchase of an extra fan, which makes it less valuable than air coolers that come with two fans out of the box.
Summary
Overall, the Cooler Master Hyper 212 RGB Black Edition is a strong option for budget gamers looking to add some flair to the inside of their gaming PC. Despite remaining at a budget-friendly price, this air cooler includes a solid combination of style and substance thanks to the 120mm fan with custom RGB lighting. Also, the slimmer form factor makes it an ideal choice for entry-level gamers that are looking to upgrade the components within their build on a regular basis.
Features: 4/5
Design: 4.3/5
Performance: 4/5
Value for Money: 3.8/5
Pros
- Budget pricing
- RGB lighting
- Easy to install
Cons
- Contains low number of heat pipes
- Only includes 1 fan
Where to Buy
Buy the Cooler Master Hyper 212 RGB Black Edition on:
5. Thermaltake TH120
👑 The best liquid CPU cooler
Introduction
We’re rounding off our list with another budget liquid cooler with the Thermaltake TH120. Like our previous liquid cooled option, the 120mm radiator and water pump combo makes the TH120 less intrusive than its air cooling counterparts whilst still being able to keep the temperatures of your system nice and chilly.
This cooler is no slouch when it comes to design either, as the TH120 includes plenty of ARGB lighting to illuminate the inside of gaming PC however you’d like. In addition, for those gamers looking to synchronise the lighting effects with other components within their build, this cooler is compatible with various motherboard RGB software. Pairing this colourful design with strong thermals and an entry-level price point, this cooler is a great choice for budget builders.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Thermaltake TH120 |
|---|---|
| Max Fan Speed | 1500RPM |
| Connector Type | 4-pin PWM |
| RGB | No |
| Heat Pipes | N/A |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel – LGA 1700, 1200, 115#, 1366, 2011, 2066 / AMD – AM5, AM4, AM3, AM2 |
Things We Like
Cheap liquid cooling: This 120mm AIO is one of the cheapest ways to get liquid cooling within a gaming PC, allowing consumers to benefit the smaller size and more efficient cooling methods these coolers provide.
Lots of RGB: Plenty of the options on this list have been a little light on the RGB, but the TH120 does not suffer the same fate. Therefore, any RGB lovers will be very happy if they pick up this cooler.
Things We Don’t Like
Pricier than air coolers: Whilst the price of the TH120 remains fairly affordable for most budget gamers, it does come at a slight increase compare to most air coolers on the market, making it less than ideal for those looking for the best value possible.
Struggles against some air coolers: The general rule of PC building is that liquid coolers offer better thermal regulation than air coolers, but this doesn’t mean that all liquid coolers are the superior choice. Even though this cooler will be more than capable of handling a budget system, it does lack the performance that some high-end air coolers can offer.
Summary
Thermaltake’s TH120 is the ideal choice for budget gamers looking to pick up a liquid cooler. Offering a solid blend of performance and aesthetics, this 120mm AIO provides budget gamers with a lot of features to enhance their build and overall gaming experience. RGB lovers in particular will be happy with the amount of colour this cooler provides, as it is sure to bolster the internals of any budget system.
Features: 4/5
Design: 4.3/5
Performance: 4/5
Value for Money: 3.8/5
Pros
- Entry-level liquid cooler
- Compact form factor
- Lots of RGB
Cons
- Pricey for budget PCs
- Outperformed by some air coolers
Where to Buy
Buy the Thermaltake TH120 on:
Is Air Cooling the Best Option for Budget Gaming PCs?
The biggest decision that most gamers will need to make when looking at CPU coolers in particular is whether to pick up an air or liquid cooled option. Both options have their strengths and weaknesses, but the determining factor is usually price.
Generally, liquid coolers are considered the best option due to their improved efficiency and reduced size. However, the benefits of these coolers come with an increased price tag that can often be too much for those on a restricted budget.
As a result, air coolers are often a better option for budget gamers due to their better value for money. Despite having more performance restrictions than their liquid counterparts, air cooling is still a viable option for most systems that is available at a very affordable price point. Because of this, air coolers tend to be a better choice for budget systems, as they are more than capable of controlling temperatures within a less demanding PC whilst significantly cutting down on costs.
Motherboard & CPU Compatibility
Another key factor to consider when picking up a CPU cooler is whether it has the mounting hardware to match your CPU and motherboard of choice. New generations of CPU and motherboards can often lead to new sockets that can’t be connected to older CPU coolers, at least without the additional purchase of a separate bracket or adapter. Because of this, it is important to check which sockets a CPU cooler supports before making a purchase which could result in a waste of money.
Thankfully, Intel’s latest generation of CPUs use the same LGA 1700 socket as the previous generation of CPUs. This means that is rare to see a CPU cooler that doesn’t support the likes of the i3 13100F. Also, those upgrading from a 12th-gen processors won’t have to replace their existing cooler, allowing them to save some funds to use on other upgrades.
Why You Can Trust Us
After looking through our recommendations for the best cooler for the i3 13100F, you’re probably wondering why you should consider our thoughts when building your next PC? Well, our team of PC gaming enthusiasts put a lot of hours into testing all of the products that we get our hands on. Using a range of gaming and productivity based procedures, along with general day-to-day use, we gain a solid understanding of all the strengths and weaknesses of a particular product. For those interested in learning more about our research methods and editorial team, head over to the About Us section!
How We Tested CPU Coolers for the Core i3 13100F
In order to test and evaluate the best CPU coolers for the Intel Core i3 13100F, there are a number of factors that we take into account, these are:
- Performance
- Compatibility
- Aesthetic
- Value for Money
For a more detailed look at our testing and evaluation methods, we recommend checking out the reviews and buyers guides that we’ve provided in the table below.
| Brand(s) | Article Link |
|---|---|
| Cooler Master | Cooler Master Hyper 212 Spectrum V3 Review |
| Deep Cool, Cooler Master, MSI, NZXT, Razer, Corsair | Best 240mm AIO Coolers |
| Cooler Master, Deep Cool, Thermaltake, NZXT | Best CPU Coolers for Intel Core i5 13400F |
| Cooler Master, Noctua, Deep Cool, Corsair | The Best CPU & CPU Cooler Combos to Buy in 2023! |
Conclusion
Best CPU Cooler for Intel Core i3 13100F: A Component
If we had to select just one of these coolers to put into an i3 13100F PC build, then our top choice is the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE. For such a low price point, it’s hard to overlook the value this air cooler provides for budget gamers. Plus, the colour combination on the fans creates a distinct appearance without having to shell out some extra cash for RGB.
Looking for more information? Read our Best Motherboards for Intel Core i3 13100F, or Buy the Core i3 13100F on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Intel Core i3 13100F Good for Gaming?
The Core i3 13100F is a great processor for budget gamers, offering solid 1080p gameplay at a very affordable price point.
Do Air Coolers Cause Clearance Issues?
Generally, no. Most PC cases and motherboards will be able to fit an air cooler in without any issues. However, smaller cases may struggle to fit a larger cooler without obstructions, making it important to check dimensions before picking one up.
Can I Overclock the i3 13100F?
No. Only Intel’s ‘K’ series CPUs can be overclocked, which is indicated within the name of each SKU.
Do I Need a CPU Cooler on a Budget PC?
Yes. We would always recommend picking up a CPU cooler for any gaming PC in order to avoid all the problems that can occur when a PC gets too hot.
